February
20
23
Theme: Seagrass
Enjoy this free activity sponsored by Manatee Lagoon on February 4, 2023. ManateeFest 2023 | Manatee Lagoon (visitmanateelagoon.com)
Source: @roamwithmephotography
Source: For more information visit: https://myfwc.com/research/habitat/seagrasses/
Natural Area: Phil Foster Park
Phil Foster Park is a great place to see seagrass habitat and the wildlife it supports. “The Blue Heron Bridge area is internationally recognized by scientists, scuba divers, underwater photographers, and snorkelers for its abundance of unique marine life. Squid, octopus, spotted rays, and starfish are regularly seen. A snorkel trail made of limestone boulders and prefabricated reef modules spans a two-acre area in 6 to 10 feet of water. 600 tons of rock were used to build this artificial reef!”
Events/Activities:
Seagrasses are grass-like flowering plants that live completely submerged in marine and estuarine waters. Florida’s approximately 2 million acres of seagrasses perform many significant functions: 1) they help maintain water clarity by trapping fine sediments and particles with their leaves; 2) they stabilize the bottom with their roots and underground stems; 3) they provide shelter for fishes, crustaceans, and shellfish; and 4) they and the organisms that grow on them are food for many marine animals and water birds. The canopy of seagrass leaves protects young marine animals from larger predators. Some animals, such as manatees and sea turtles, eat seagrass blades. Other animals derive nutrition from eating algae and small animals that live on the seagrass leaves.
Historic Watershed Fact
The Lake Worth Lagoon used to be a freshwater lake. Inlets were opened to allow the development of the mainland. The southern inlet in Boynton allows more flow through the lagoon to help promote healthier waters. Lake Worth Lagoon will never be a freshwater lake again, so we work hard to protect the estuary it has become.
Writing Prompt
Let’s get curious! Look around you, what do you observe? What questions do you have about the things you observe?
Tip for Stewardship
Check lakeworthwaterkeeper.org lagoon water quality updates before recreating in the lagoon.